Differences Between Prokaryotic and Eukaryotic Cells

What is the main difference between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells?

Choose the correct statement:

a) Prokaryotic cells have a nucleus, while eukaryotic cells do not.

b) Eukaryotic cells have a nucleus, while prokaryotic cells do not.

Answer:

b) Eukaryotic cells have a nucleus, while prokaryotic cells do not.

Eukaryotic cells, found in plants, animals, fungi, and protists, have a distinct nucleus that houses the cell's DNA and is enclosed by a nuclear membrane. This allows for the separation of genetic material from the rest of the cell, providing a specialized environment for gene regulation and cellular processes.

On the other hand, prokaryotic cells, which include bacteria and archaea, lack a nucleus. Instead, their DNA is located in a region of the cell called the nucleoid. Without a membrane-bound nucleus, prokaryotic cells have a simpler internal structure compared to eukaryotic cells.